Get ready for an exciting showcase as the charming Lynton & Barnstaple Railway in Devon prepares to take center stage in the upcoming Channel 4 series, 'Britain’s Favourite Railway Stations.' This much-anticipated show is set to premiere on Thursday, January 8th, at 9 PM, and promises to be a delightful exploration of Britain’s railway heritage.
In this series, viewers will join Si King, one half of the popular Hairy Bikers duo, along with Siddy Holloway, a familiar face known for her captivating explorations of the London Underground. They will be accompanied by architect Damion Burrows on their journey, venturing beyond merely riding the trains.
What makes this series truly fascinating is its focus on uncovering the remarkable aspects of railway stations—from vibrant platforms bustling with activity to the hidden gems that reveal the intertwining of tradition, innovation, and community spirit. Each episode invites you to witness how these elements coexist harmoniously within the railways.
Spanning four episodes, the show will feature an impressive array of railway stations, with the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway’s Woody Bay station standing out as one of the select heritage sites highlighted. Currently, this railway operates a scenic one-mile route from Woody Bay to Killington Lane Halt, offering charming steam-hauled journeys that last about 20 minutes for a two-mile round trip.
The first train service of the 2026 season is set to commence on Friday, January 3rd, with departures available every 45 minutes between 10:35 AM and 4:00 PM. Throughout the summer, services will continue daily, except on Mondays and Fridays, making it a wonderful opportunity for visitors to enjoy this picturesque railway.
Filming for the new television series took place last summer, coinciding with the initiation of a project to construct a new carriage shelter at Woody Bay. This is just one phase of the ongoing efforts to restore the railway, with plans underway to extend the line to Cricket Field Lane at Parracombe.
But here's where it gets controversial: while many celebrate the revival of such heritage railways, others question the environmental impact and sustainability of extending these services. What do you think? Is the charm of heritage railways worth the potential environmental cost? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
